jennifer davis has the story. >> reporter: president obama introduces the nation to his long-time friend, harvard professor elizabeth warren. he says she'll be a fierce advocate for all americans especially the middle class. >> the consumer financial protection bureau will be a watch dog for the american consumer. >> reporter: critics object to the fact that warren's being appoint the as the presidential advisor which by passes the senate confirmation process. others say like this administration, she's too tough on business. >> never before has federal policy been so hostile to small business. on the very businesses that we count on to help grow us out of recessions. >> reporter: the other big washington debate, what to do about tax cuts set to expire at end of the year. >> i am urging the leaders of the other party to stop holding middle class tax cuts hostage and extend this relief to families immediately. >> reporter: but as newly released figures so consumer confidence unexpectedly worsened in september to its weakest level in a year, the g.o.p. is arguing that all americans, includi